Expectations and experiences of theatrical arts consumers : a case study from the Netherlands

Aim of the case study was to contribute to the understanding of theatrical arts consumption and arts management. The investigation was limited to specific audiences who attended performances of 'Mijn Elektra', but the study provides a valuable basis to induce some new hypotheses on the behavior of theatrical arts attenders in general, especially those who attend subsidized drama in the Netherlands. The judgement of theatrical arts consumers seem to be based primarily on the experiences of artistic functioning, theme, topcality and the technical quality of acting, directing and scenery.